1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho
To start off, 1987 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho weights approximately 196 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1987 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1987 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho (116 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 1979 Matra-Simca Rancho | |
| Make | Ford | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Thunderbird | Rancho |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 60 L |
